Mindfulness, my definition:

Being mindful of what you are giving your attention to and not allowing your mind to be too full.

Oh so simple hey?

I know it isn't simple and some people will find it harder than others. I was chatting to a friend this weekend who said "I understand what it is but I am rubbish at it". I gave her "the look" and she said " I know, I know, I need to start by not saying that", ha yes indeed, positive intentions only please. No one is rubbish at it, some people just find it easier than others. The key is to just start.

It all starts with just seconds; 10 seconds will turn into 30 seconds, which will turn into a minute, which will turn into three. And before you know it you are calming your mind when you didn't think you could.

Mindful practices do not have to be a full on meditation and you do not have to be some sort of hippy, have an alter, sit crossed legged, burn incense or eat a certain way (although all those things are cool AF too).

I want to explain to you, and show you, that mindfulness is for anyone and everyone, and in a time where we are over stimulated with outside noise and overwhelmed with internal chatter, it truly can help you be calmer, have more clarity and find some sense of peace. Especially for my frazzled, time chasing and sleep deprived mamas. You know the feeling, constantly busy and your head is spinning/tired.

So, as I continue to blog I will share lots of different types of mindfulness practices that you can try, including some specifically for mums and babies/children, but for today, just start with this:

Choose a time of day when you can get two minutes to yourself, when you first wake up, in the shower, making the dinner, just before bed, even on the loo!

Use this time to consciously choose to check-in with yourself. Both physically and mentally. Spend a minute noticing if there is any tension in your body, from the top of your head, neck, back, arms and legs, all the way to the tips of your toes.

Next, make en effort to relax every bit of your body, from the top of your head, neck, back, arms and legs, all the way to the tips of your toes.

Finally, once relaxed, and your mind has had time to focus on your body rather than wandering, try to quieten your mind. If it helps close your eyes and focus on a noise; a lawn mower, a bird singing, even traffic or a dripping tap. If there is nothing, focus on your breathing, the sensation of it and the sound in your ears. When a thought pops into your mind try not to entertain it or let it develop, observe it and let it pass. Bring your focus back. And do this for just a minute.

Each day add on 30 seconds until you can do at least three minutes, and then do this for as long as you need.

Remember start with seconds and you will get better.

Over the next few blogs I will also tell you about my own personal experiences and those of family and friends.

Oh and, exciting news, watch this space.... The MamaKind Club Podcast is coming soon!!!!! I can't wait to support you and talk you through some of the mindful practices, and I already have some awesome guests lined up.

Lots of love and take it easy.

If you have any questions or want to chat more, or reach out for some help with the above, head over to The MamaKind Club community group on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/themamakindclub